1. Sleeveless Sheath Dress
Yes, you can wear pastel colors, even into fall. To make this Ann Taylor Vibrant Sheath Dress appropriate for cooler weather, pair with a paperweight cotton turtleneck that will help keep you warm, but won't add bulk to the delicate fabric. A structured bag in a darker neutral like chocolate, charcoal or black will help complete the look.
The Ann Taylor Vibrant Sheath Dress is also available in black. It comes in sizes extra-small through extra, extra large in regular and petites. The dress is 7 percent Spandex, 93 percent rayon and machine-washable.
2. Neon Lace Top
Give a second life to that trendy neon lace top (ours is from Madewell) by adding a slim-fit long tank underneath to create the illusion of a longer top. Then pair with a black skirt or pants to tone down the bright color and top with a winter white blazer to keep the overall look from feeling to '80s. Finish with a belt and a bag in the same contrasting color to complete the look.
The Madewell Scallop Lace Top is available in white and comes in sizes extra small through extra large. It is cotton/nylon/rayon and dry clean only.
3. Maxi Dress
For a relaxed weekend style, transform your favorite summer maxi dress into a casual, cool-weather outfit. Pull on a long sleeve T-shirt or thin cotton sweater over this bright orange Banana Republic Knit Patio Dress. Navy or camel are goof-proof choices. Then top with a long vest to match the length of the dress. Your favorite brown boots from last year will complete the laid back look.
The Banana Republic Knit Patio Dress is available in extra-small through extra-large. It is 100% Lyocell and machine-washable.
4. Printed Shorts
Wear these printed shorts as you would a favorite print skirt. To make the J.Crew Tiki Print Shorts (inspired by a vintage Hawaiian print) evening-appropriate come fall, wear with a silky blouse or a tank paired with a sexy leather blazer. Pull on a pair of brightly colored tights that are hot this fall—think tomato red—or try charcoal grey for a subtler feel. Wear with a favorite pair of booties.
The J.Crew Tiki Print Shorts are available in sizes zero to 12. They are cotton with a hint of stretch and machine-washable.
5. Summer Sandals
Some, note that that is some, not all summer sandals can make the switch to autumn wear. Overly strappy sandals, especially flats, or rafia or cork wedges are best stored until next spring. But, sandals with wood details, including these Michael Michael Kors Seville platforms, snakeskin or suede can easily transition into fall. Pair with tights of any color or, if you're seriously fashion forward, go for socks. Socks and sandals were seen all over the fall runways and are a fresh way to wear summer sandals on into winter.
The Michael Michael Kors Seville platform is available in sizes 5.5 to 11.